A: Bermuda is a dominant, fast growing grass that will out-compete many other turfgrass varieties. Generally, there are three methods for control of bermudagrass; digging the grass out by hand, killing the bermuda and the grass around it by applying a Roundup type herbicide, or applying a herbicide that will kill the bermuda but not damage the surrounding turfgrass. Because EMPIRE Zoysia has a natural resistance to several common herbicides, we recommend that you initially try the third method. Specifically, as a homeowner, you can use Ornamec herbicide to eliminate the bermuda. A turf farm can use Fusilade II. Used at labeled rates, both Ornamec and Fusilade II will have little to no negative effects on EMPIRE. As always, please read and follow labeled instructions on any herbicide product. Also, Ornamec and Fusilade II may only be available through a licensed chemical applicator.

A: EMPIRE Zoysia exhibits good to excellent cold tolerance. It is well adapted for use throughout the southern U.S. and even into parts of Agricultural zones 5 and 6.

A: Simply put, this grass loves the heat and humidity. That fact, in part, is what makes it perform so well in the southern U.S. where other zoysias fail. EMPIRE has the genetic makeup and growth habit to thrive during periods of increased environmental pressure, such as summer, when other grasses struggle.

A: Absolutely not. EMPIRE Zoysia is truly a low maintenance grass. Standard rotary mowers are used on EMPIRE from production through weekend mowings. If you like to reel mow your lawn, go ahead. Your EMPIRE will look even more "finished off". As for thatch, when mowed regularly to specified heights (see our maintenance section), EMPIRE will require minimal de-thatching.

A: EMPIRE grows most vigorously during the warmer months and handles increased environmental pressures very well. As such, EMPIRE will plant very well from early spring through mid-fall. In warmer parts of the southern U.S., planting in late fall and winter is appropriate.

A: Some people have a need / desire to re-establish their lawns with a new turfgrass variety One of several ways to accomplish this is by using plugs. Depending on the existing turfgrass variety and its relative health and density, plugs can be used to fill the lawn and overtake the existing grass. If the existing grass has a high density and is relatively healthy, a herbicide application may be needed that targets the unwanted grass but doesn't injure the plugs. The effects of the herbicide should give the EMPIRE a leg up during grow-in and reduce competition for needed nutrients and water. If needed, check with your local extension agent to find a herbicide that meets this need for your specific lawn. If your lawn is thin or unhealthy, selective herbicide use is most likely not required...the EMPIRE will out-compete thin and unhealthy grass. In the event your current turfgrass is unhealthy, take the time to understand what is causing the problem. Otherwise, you may just be transferring an existing problem to your new lawn.